Child Safety Commitment

At Sala Time Futsal Club, we are committed to providing a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for all children and young people.

We recognise the trust families place in our club and take that responsibility seriously.

Our commitment includes:
✔ Ensuring all coaches and volunteers meet child safety requirements
✔ Promoting respectful behaviour and positive environments
✔ Providing clear processes to report concerns
✔ Responding promptly and appropriately to all issues raised

We have zero tolerance for child abuse, bullying or discrimination in any form.

We encourage all players and families to speak up if something doesn’t feel right — your voice matters.

📧 admin@salatimefc.com

Child Safety & Wellbeing Policy

Sala Time Futsal Club

1. Commitment to Child Safety

Sala Time Futsal Club is committed to the safety, wellbeing and empowerment of all children and young people.

We have zero tolerance for child abuse and are committed to creating a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment where all children feel valued, respected and heard.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Players

• Coaches

• Volunteers

• Committee members

• Parents and spectators

• Any person involved in club activities

3. Our Child Safe Principles

We will:

• Prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children in all decisions

• Listen to and respect children’s voices

• Promote inclusion, equity and cultural safety

• Act quickly and appropriately on concerns

• Comply with all legal and regulatory requirements

4. Codes of Conduct

All members must comply with the Sala Time Codes of Conduct, which outline expected behaviours and standards when interacting with children.

5. Recruitment & Screening

• All relevant personnel must hold a valid Blue Card

• The club will undertake appropriate screening and reference checks

• Child safety responsibilities are included in all roles

6. Child Safe Practices

The club will:

• Provide safe physical and online environments

• Ensure appropriate supervision at all times

• Maintain clear boundaries between adults and children

• Require parental involvement in communication channels

• Obtain consent for photos and transport arrangements

7. Reporting Concerns

All concerns about child safety must be taken seriously.

Anyone who believes a child is at risk must:

1. Ensure the child is safe

2. Report the concern immediately to the club

3. Report to external authorities where required

The club will:

• Respond promptly and appropriately

• Support the child and their family

• Maintain confidentiality where possible

8. Complaints Handling

The club maintains a Child Safe Complaints Policy which ensures:

• Complaints are child-focused

• Processes are clear and accessible

• All concerns are taken seriously and investigated

9. Training & Awareness

• Coaches and volunteers will receive child safety guidance

• The club promotes awareness of recognising and responding to harm

10. Equity, Inclusion & Cultural Safety

Sala Time Futsal Club is committed to:

• Respecting diversity and inclusion

• Supporting children of all backgrounds and abilities

• Promoting culturally safe environments, including for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children

11. Continuous Improvement

The club will:

• Review policies annually

• Seek feedback from children and families

• Improve practices based on feedback and incidents

12. Responsibility

Child safety is everyone’s responsibility. All members must comply with this policy.

13. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as required.

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Child Safe Complaints & Grievance Policy

Sala Time Futsal Club

1. Purpose

This policy ensures all complaints and concerns — especially those involving children — are handled in a safe, fair, and child-focused way.

2. Who Can Make a Complaint

Complaints can be made by:

• Children and young people

• Parents or carers

• Coaches, volunteers, or members

3. Our Commitment

We will:

• Take all complaints seriously

• Listen to children and act in their best interests

• Respond promptly and fairly

• Protect privacy and confidentiality

• Ensure no one is treated unfairly for raising a concern

4. How to Make a Complaint

A complaint can be made:

• In person

• Through a parent or trusted adult

• By email: admin@salatimefc.com

5. Immediate Safety

If a child is in immediate danger:

• Contact emergency services (000)

• Take immediate steps to ensure safety

6. Complaint Handling Process

Step 1: Receive Complaint

• Acknowledge receipt as soon as possible

• Record details securely

Step 2: Assess Risk

• Determine if the child is safe

• Identify if external reporting is required

Step 3: Report (if required)

• Report to relevant authorities (e.g. Police or Child Safety) where required by law

Step 4: Investigate

• Conduct a fair and impartial review

• Speak to relevant parties

• Maintain confidentiality

Step 5: Outcome

• Provide a response to the complainant

• Take appropriate action

7. Child-Focused Approach

We will:

• Use language children understand

• Allow children to be supported by a trusted adult

• Avoid causing further harm or distress

• Keep children informed where appropriate

8. Confidentiality & Privacy

All complaints will be handled confidentially, with information shared only where necessary.

9. Protection from Victimisation

No person will be disadvantaged for making a complaint in good faith.

10. Record Keeping

The club will:

• Maintain secure records of all complaints

• Monitor trends to improve safety practices

11. Appeals

If a person is not satisfied with the outcome, they may request a review by the club’s executive committee.

12. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure effectiveness and compliance.

Code of Conduct Policy

Sala Time Futsal Club

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline the expected standards of behaviour for all participants and to promote a safe, respectful and positive environment in line with the Protect Our Game initiative.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Players

• Coaches and team managers

• Club officials and volunteers

• Parents and spectators

• Any person involved in club activities

3. Commitment

Sala Time Futsal Club is committed to:

• Providing a safe, inclusive and respectful environment

• Promoting fair play and positive behaviour

• Protecting the integrity of futsal

• Upholding child safety at all times

4. Coaches, Team Managers & Club Officials Code of Conduct

Appropriate Behaviour

All coaches, managers and officials must:

• Show respect to everyone involved in the game

• Respect match officials and encourage players to do the same

• Encourage fair play and high standards of behaviour

• Be gracious in both victory and defeat

• Follow the rules and promote the spirit of the game

• Not tolerate offensive, insulting or abusive behaviour

• Respect facilities, equipment and venues at all times

• Act as positive role models for players, particularly children

Not Appropriate Behaviour

Coaches, managers and officials must not:

• Use offensive, insulting or abusive language or gestures towards referees, players, officials or spectators

• Fail to comply with the direction of a match official

• Threaten or engage in physical violence

• Use discriminatory, racist, sexist, homophobic, religious or otherwise offensive language or behaviour

• Publicly dispute or dissent against a referee’s decision

• Damage or steal property

5. Player Code of Conduct

Appropriate Behaviour

All players must:

• Show respect to everyone involved in the game

• Play by the rules and uphold the spirit of futsal

• Demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times

• Accept winning and losing with dignity, including shaking hands at the end of games

• Respect match officials, teammates and opponents

• Respect facilities and equipment

Not Appropriate Behaviour

Players must not:

• Use offensive, insulting or abusive language or gestures

• Fail to comply with match official directions

• Threaten or engage in physical violence

• Use discriminatory, racist, sexist, homophobic, religious or otherwise offensive language or behaviour

• Damage or steal property

6. Parent & Spectator Code of Conduct

Appropriate Behaviour

Parents and spectators must:

• Support a positive and enjoyable environment

• Encourage effort and participation from all players

• Respect match officials and coaches and encourage players to do the same

• Remain in designated spectator areas

• Offer positive encouragement, especially when players make mistakes

• Respect facilities and venues

Not Appropriate Behaviour

Parents and spectators must not:

• Use offensive, insulting or abusive language or gestures

• Fail to comply with match official directions

• Threaten or engage in physical violence

• Use discriminatory, racist, sexist, homophobic, religious or otherwise offensive language or behaviour

• Publicly dispute or dissent referee decisions

• Damage or steal property

7. Breaches of the Code of Conduct

Failure to comply with this policy may result in:

• Verbal or written warning

• Removal from matches or training

• Suspension from participation

• Removal from the club

Serious breaches, particularly those involving child safety or violence, may be referred to external authorities.

8. Reporting Concerns

All concerns or breaches must be reported in accordance with:

• Child Safe Complaints & Grievance Policy

• Child Safety & Wellbeing Policy

All reports will be taken seriously and handled appropriately.

9. Child Safety Considerations

All members must:

• Prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children

• Maintain appropriate boundaries

• Act as positive role models

• Report any concerns immediately

10. Alignment with Protect Our Game

Sala Time Futsal Club supports the Protect Our Game initiative and is committed to promoting respect, safety and integrity across all levels of participation.

11. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure alignment with best practice and governing body requirements.

Blue Card (Working with Children Check) Policy

Sala Time Futsal Club

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all individuals engaged in child-related activities at Sala Time Futsal Club are appropriately screened and suitable to work with children, in accordance with Queensland legislation.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Coaches

• Assistant coaches

• Team managers

• Volunteers

• Committee members

• Any adult engaged in activities involving children

3. Commitment

Sala Time Futsal Club is committed to:

• Providing a safe and supportive environment for children and young people

• Complying with all legal requirements relating to Working with Children Checks (Blue Cards)

• Ensuring all relevant personnel are appropriately screened before engaging with children

4. Blue Card Requirements

• All individuals who work or volunteer with children must hold a valid Blue Card issued by the Queensland Government.

• No person may commence child-related duties without a valid Blue Card or approved application where legally permitted.

• Blue Cards must remain current at all times while engaged with the club.

5. Responsibilities

Individuals

• Apply for and maintain a valid Blue Card

• Notify the club of any changes to their Blue Card status

• Provide evidence of their Blue Card upon request

Sala Time Futsal Club

• Verify Blue Card status before engagement

• Maintain accurate records of all Blue Card holders

• Ensure no unscreened individuals work with children

• Take immediate action if a Blue Card is suspended, cancelled, or expires

6. Record Keeping

The club will maintain a secure register of:

• Blue Card numbers

• Expiry dates

• Verification records

This information will be stored confidentially and reviewed regularly.

7. Non-Compliance

Any individual who:

• Does not hold a valid Blue Card

• Fails to maintain their Blue Card

• Provides false or misleading information

Will not be permitted to participate in child-related activities and may face disciplinary action.

8. Child Safety Considerations

Holding a Blue Card is only one part of ensuring child safety.

All individuals must also:

• Comply with the Child Safety & Wellbeing Policy

• Follow the Code of Conduct

• Maintain appropriate boundaries with children

• Report any concerns regarding child safety

9. Legislative Compliance

This policy aligns with Queensland’s Working with Children Check (Blue Card) requirements and relevant child protection legislation.

10. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure compliance with legislation and best practice.

Child & Youth Risk Management Strategy

Sala Time Futsal Club

1. Purpose

The purpose of this strategy is to identify, minimise and manage risks to children and young people participating in Sala Time Futsal Club activities and to ensure a safe, supportive and inclusive environment.

2. Scope

This strategy applies to:

• Players (children and young people)

• Coaches and assistant coaches

• Volunteers and team managers

• Committee members and officials

• Parents and spectators

• Any person involved in club activities

3. Commitment

Sala Time Futsal Club is committed to:

• Protecting children and young people from harm

• Providing a safe physical and emotional environment

• Proactively identifying and managing risks

• Responding effectively to incidents and concerns

• Complying with all child protection and safety requirements

4. Risk Management Approach

The club will:

• Identify potential risks to children across all activities

• Assess the likelihood and impact of risks

• Implement controls to minimise or eliminate risks

• Monitor and review risks regularly

• Maintain records of incidents and actions taken

5. Key Risk Areas & Controls

5.1 Physical Environment

Risks may include:

• Unsafe playing surfaces

• Inadequate supervision

• Injury hazards

Controls:

• Regular facility inspections

• First aid kits available at all sessions

• Appropriate supervision ratios

• Safe setup and pack down of equipment

5.2 Behavioural Risks

Risks may include:

• Bullying or harassment

• Aggressive behaviour

• Poor sportsmanship

Controls:

• Enforcement of Code of Conduct

• Clear expectations for behaviour

• Immediate action on breaches

• Promotion of positive culture

5.3 Child Safety Risks

Risks may include:

• Inappropriate interactions

• Grooming behaviour

• Abuse or neglect

Controls:

• Blue Card compliance

• Clear boundaries for interactions

• Open and visible environments

• Mandatory reporting procedures

• Child safety training and awareness

5.4 Online & Communication Risks

Risks may include:

• Inappropriate messaging

• Unsupervised communication

• Sharing of images without consent

Controls:

• No private 1-on-1 communication with minors

• Parents included in communication channels

• Consent required for photos/videos

• Use of approved communication platforms

5.5 Transport Risks

Risks may include:

• Unsafe travel arrangements

• Lack of parental awareness

Controls:

• Parental consent required

• Clear communication of arrangements

• Drivers must be licensed and vehicles roadworthy

• Preference for parent-managed transport

6. Recruitment & Screening

The club will:

• Require all relevant personnel to hold a valid Blue Card

• Ensure individuals are suitable to work with children

• Clearly communicate child safety expectations

7. Training & Awareness

The club will:

• Provide child safety guidance to coaches and volunteers

• Promote awareness of recognising and responding to harm

• Encourage a culture of vigilance and reporting

8. Reporting & Responding to Incidents

All concerns must be reported in accordance with:

• Child Safety & Wellbeing Policy

• Child Safe Complaints & Grievance Policy

The club will:

• Respond promptly to all concerns

• Ensure the safety of the child

• Report to external authorities where required

• Maintain confidentiality

9. Record Keeping

The club will maintain:

• Incident Register

• Blue Card Register

• Records of complaints and actions taken

All records will be stored securely and handled confidentially.

10. Continuous Improvement

The club will:

• Review risks regularly

• Analyse incidents and trends

• Seek feedback from members

• Update controls and practices as needed

11. Responsibility

Child safety and risk management is the responsibility of all members of Sala Time Futsal Club.

12. Review

This strategy will be reviewed annually to ensure effectiveness and alignment with best practice and legislative requirements.

Recruitment & Screening Policy

Sala Time Futsal Club

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all individuals engaged by Sala Time Futsal Club are suitable to work with children and that recruitment practices prioritise child safety and wellbeing.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Coaches and assistant coaches

• Team managers

• Committee members

• Volunteers

• Contractors and any person engaged in club activities involving children

3. Commitment

Sala Time Futsal Club is committed to:

• Recruiting suitable and appropriate people to work with children

• Preventing individuals who pose a risk from engaging with the club

• Embedding child safety into all recruitment and selection processes

• Complying with all relevant legislation and child safety standards

4. Child Safe Recruitment Principles

The club will:

• Prioritise child safety in all recruitment decisions

• Clearly communicate behavioural expectations

• Apply consistent screening processes

• Promote transparency and accountability

• Take a precautionary approach where concerns arise

5. Recruitment Process

All appointments will follow these steps where applicable:

5.1 Role Definition

• Clearly define the role and responsibilities

• Include child safety expectations in all role descriptions

5.2 Application & Expression of Interest

• Collect basic personal and contact information

• Obtain relevant experience and background

5.3 Screening & Checks

• Verify identity

• Conduct reference checks (where appropriate)

• Assess suitability to work with children

5.4 Blue Card Requirement

• All relevant individuals must hold a valid Blue Card

• No individual may commence child-related duties without appropriate clearance

5.5 Appointment Decision

• Selection based on suitability, experience and alignment with club values

• Child safety considerations take priority over all other factors

6. Induction

All appointed individuals will receive:

• Information on the Child Safety & Wellbeing Policy

• Code of Conduct expectations

• Reporting obligations

• Boundaries when working with children

7. Ongoing Monitoring

The club will:

• Monitor behaviour and conduct of all personnel

• Address concerns promptly

• Take appropriate action where risks are identified

8. Non-Compliance

The club will not engage or will remove any individual who:

• Does not meet screening requirements

• Fails to obtain or maintain a valid Blue Card

• Breaches child safety policies or Code of Conduct

• Poses a risk to children or the club

9. Confidentiality

All recruitment and screening information will be:

• Treated confidentially

• Stored securely

• Used only for the purpose of assessing suitability

10. Child Safety Considerations

All individuals engaged by the club must:

• Act in the best interests of children

• Maintain appropriate boundaries

• Uphold the club’s child safety policies

• Report any concerns immediately

11. Legislative Compliance

This policy aligns with Queensland legislation relating to Working with Children Checks (Blue Cards) and child protection requirements.

12. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure compliance with legislation and best practice.

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Safeguarding Reporting Procedure

Sala Time Futsal Club

1. Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to provide a clear and consistent process for reporting and responding to concerns about the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.

2. Scope

This procedure applies to all:

• Players

• Coaches and volunteers

• Committee members

• Parents and spectators

• Any person involved in club activities

3. Commitment

Sala Time Futsal Club is committed to:

• Taking all concerns seriously

• Responding promptly and appropriately

• Prioritising the safety of children

• Supporting those who raise concerns

4. What Should Be Reported

Concerns may include:

• Abuse or suspected abuse

• Inappropriate behaviour or boundary breaches

• Bullying or harassment

• Grooming behaviour

• Any situation where a child feels unsafe

5. How to Report

Reports can be made by:

• Speaking to a coach or committee member

• Contacting the Child Safety Officer

• Emailing: admin@salatimefc.com

Reports can be made by:

• Children

• Parents or carers

• Coaches or volunteers

• Any member of the public

6. Immediate Response

When a concern is raised:

• Ensure the child is safe

• Listen without judgement

• Do not investigate or ask leading questions

• Record the concern as accurately as possible

• Report immediately to the Child Safety Officer

7. Escalation

The club will escalate concerns where required, including to:

• Queensland Police

• Child Safety Services

• Relevant governing bodies

8. Confidentiality

All reports will be handled confidentially, with information shared only where necessary to protect the child or meet legal obligations.

9. Protection from Victimisation

Any person who raises a concern in good faith will be supported and protected from victimisation.

10. Record Keeping

All reports will be:

• Documented in the Incident Register

• Stored securely

• Reviewed to identify patterns or risks

11. Review

This procedure will be reviewed annually.

Volunteer Management Policy

Sala Time Futsal Club

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that volunteers are effectively recruited, supported and managed to provide a safe, positive and inclusive environment for all participants.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all volunteers involved in Sala Time Futsal Club activities.

3. Commitment

Sala Time Futsal Club is committed to:

• Supporting and valuing volunteers

• Providing a safe and respectful environment

• Ensuring volunteers are appropriately screened and trained

• Promoting positive experiences for all participants

4. Recruitment & Screening

All volunteers will:

• Be recruited in accordance with the Recruitment & Screening Policy

• Hold a valid Blue Card where required

• Be assessed for suitability to work with children

5. Roles & Responsibilities

Volunteers are expected to:

• Act in accordance with club policies and Code of Conduct

• Prioritise the safety and wellbeing of participants

• Perform their role responsibly and reliably

• Maintain appropriate boundaries with children

6. Induction & Training

The club will provide:

• Information on key policies

• Guidance on child safety expectations

• Role-specific instructions where required

7. Supervision & Support

The club will:

• Provide appropriate oversight of volunteers

• Offer support and guidance where needed

• Address concerns or issues promptly

8. Recognition

The club values the contribution of volunteers and will:

• Acknowledge their efforts

• Promote a positive and supportive culture

9. Conduct & Performance

Failure to meet expectations may result in:

• Feedback and guidance

• Reassignment of duties

• Removal from the role

10. Child Safety Considerations

All volunteers must:

• Comply with Child Safety & Wellbeing Policy

• Report concerns in line with Safeguarding Reporting Procedure

• Maintain appropriate behaviour at all times

11. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually.

Inclusion & Diversity Policy

Sala Time Futsal Club

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to promote an inclusive, welcoming and respectful environment where all individuals can participate regardless of their background or ability.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all members, participants and stakeholders of Sala Time Futsal Club.

3. Commitment

Sala Time Futsal Club is committed to:

• Providing equal opportunities for participation

• Promoting diversity and inclusion

• Creating a safe and welcoming environment

• Eliminating discrimination and barriers to participation

4. Principles

The club supports:

• Respect for all individuals

• Fair and equitable treatment

• Inclusion of people of all abilities

• Cultural diversity

• Gender equality

5. Inclusive Practices

The club will:

• Encourage participation from diverse backgrounds

• Make reasonable adjustments to support inclusion

• Promote respectful behaviour at all times

• Provide a welcoming environment for all

6. Prohibited Behaviour

The following will not be tolerated:

• Discrimination

• Harassment

• Bullying

• Exclusion based on personal characteristics

7. Responsibilities

All members must:

• Treat others with respect and dignity

• Support an inclusive environment

• Challenge inappropriate behaviour

8. Reporting

Concerns should be reported in accordance with:

• Member Protection Policy

• Complaints & Grievance Policy

9. Child Safety Considerations

Inclusion is central to child safety. The club will ensure:

• All children feel safe, valued and included

• No child is excluded or marginalised

10. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually.

Social Media & Communication Policy

Sala Time Futsal Club

1. Purpose

This policy outlines appropriate use of social media and communication platforms to ensure safe, respectful and appropriate interactions.

2. Scope

Applies to all members, including players, parents, coaches and officials.

3. Acceptable Use

Members must:

• Communicate respectfully

• Represent the club positively

• Use approved platforms for team communication

4. Unacceptable Use

Members must not:

• Post offensive, abusive or discriminatory content

• Harass or bully others online

• Share confidential or sensitive information

• Damage the reputation of the club

5. Communication with Children

• No private one-on-one messaging with children

• Parents/guardians must be included in communications

• Use group chats or approved platforms only

6. Images & Content

• Images of children must only be shared with consent

• Content must be appropriate and respectful

7. Breaches

Breaches may result in disciplinary action.

8. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually.